Elucidation of degradation processes and new stabilization concepts for the electrocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction

• Applicants: Professor Dr. Marc Ledendecker; Dr. Paul Paciok
• Subject Area: Physical Chemistry of Solids and Surfaces, Material Characterisation ; Solid State and Surface Chemistry, Material Synthesis
• Term: since 2022
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 511462370

The electrocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2RR) to synthetic fuels and chemical raw materials has been a so-called "dream reaction" for more than a century. Two main challenges of this reaction are 1) the drastic restructuring of the catalysts during the reaction and 2) the lack of selectivity with regard to high-value, long-chain hydrocarbons. The research project presented here investigates the degradation mechanisms of spherical and cubic copper particles supported on highly porous carbon materials. This is done with the help of commercial and specially synthesized carbons. Especially "hollow graphitic spheres" with precisely adjustable pore sizes are in the focus of attention. The active catalyst component is introduced into the pores of the carbon carrier and the special structure of the carrier material prevents sintering and migration of the particles during the reaction, so that the high active surface of the active copper component is guaranteed over long periods of use. In addition to colloidal chemical and e

• DFG Programme: Research Grants